If you go down to the woods today...
WE Scots are blessed with abundant forests and woodland that is full of wonder and just waiting to be explored. From nature trails to wildlife walks, you do not have to go far to find your next adventure.
During summer months, the Raiders’ Road Forest Drive is one of the most popular spots in Galloway Forest Park. Both the Otter Pool and Stroan Loch are perfect places to stop and enjoy a picnic – look skyward for red kites and buzzards. This route is also great on two wheels or on horseback.
Head to the three well-equipped visitor centres within the park – Clatteringshaws, Kirroughtree (which is fullyaccessible) and Glentrool – for tips to help you discover some of the area’s fascinating wildlife, some of which can easily be seen from the centres, including red squirrels.
Don’t miss the Meet the Deer events at the Red Deer Range, between Newton Stewart and New Galloway, Wigtownshire. These regular, guided events with rangers allow you to get fantastic views of Scotland’s largest land mammal and you can ask the experts questions.
Elsewhere, set in the beautiful, lush rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, with the River Tweed flowing through, is Tweed Valley Forest Park. Such is its scale that not one but seven forests make up the park.
Head to Glentress for an adventure on two wheels and experience some of the south of Scotland’s best mountain biking trails.
For a tree-top adventure, the Go Ape course will test your head for heights and boasts exhilarating zip-wires that allow you to fly high through the trees. For those who enjoy a walking challenge, head to Yair Forest and embark on a moderate to hard walk to the Three Bretheren, an impressive hilltop with views to match.
And with wildlife-watching at Kailzie Gardens and fishing on the River Tweed, Tweed Valley offers a great day out amid spectacular scenery.
Farther north at the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre near Aberfoyle, Perthshire, you can enjoy a Summer Family Nature Club – Minibeasts event next Friday. Get up close to woodland insects with jars and a magnifying glass and learn all about different creepy crawlies – and how you can help them to thrive in your garden at home.
There will also be outdoor exploration activities and indoor arts and crafts to enjoy.
The Summer Family Nature Club is hosting a number of events, so there are plenty of chances for your family to get involved.
Last but not least, at Bishop Loch, east of Glasgow, there will be a fun-filled day in the woods at the Let’s Play Wild event on July 7, including storytelling and minibeast hunts.
Learn more about all the events, activities, adventures and exploring opportunities at Scotland’s forest parks at forestry.gov.uk/scotland